Notes

What first sparked my interest in Computer Science were video games. While most people would
just play the game, I was intrigued by what the game was made of and I found it fascinating
how graphical interfaces combined with programming could create such an enjoyable experience.
Since then I have always wanted to know how software and computers work.

Although a big part of my understanding in computers came from self-study I must say that most
of my knowledge in Computer Science came from school. I learned the theory behind computers,
how algorithms work and problem-solving through programming. I was lucky enough to have a
passionate teacher that took an interest in me and taught me a lot more than the school
curriculum, taking me a step further towards my quest of learning as much as possible about
the world of computing. An experience that further contributed to this was when a friend of
mine and I decided to write a program in Visual Basic for the school. The program was meant to
help teachers decide the best dates for their students to take an exam in a particular subject
which gave me a deeper understanding in how databases work.

I have never missed an opportunity to learn more about computing. Every time there was an
event or a seminar about computers, I tried my best to attend it. One of the events I
participated in was the Code Cyprus 2015 at the University of Central Lancashire Cyprus. The
event included a class on robotics and a small competition in programming in which I finished
second. I was also given the chance to visit the University of Cyprus and observe project
presentations by Year-3 Computing Science students. Their presentations as well as the
discussions that followed allowed me to take a peak into this field of study, increasing my
interest in Computer Science and making me want to study this course even more.

In addition to my interest in Computer Science, I am also interested in Mathematics. To be
able to follow a course that would include them is something that excites me. I have always
liked puzzles and problem-solving; using logical thinking to systematically solve a problem
and getting a correct answer is gratifying and I was always good at it. I received a
distinction award in Advanced Mathematics and English for scoring the highest amongst my
school year in the Pancyprian Exams. My interest in learning how things work is not only
limited in computers; I also love learning how the world works and how everything can be
explained logically, which is why I took Advanced Physics as a subject in school.

Currently, I am fulfilling my military duty as an officer in the Cyprus National Guard. A
four-month military school abroad has made me a stronger person and throughout my time in the
army I learned how to cope with situations in which I never had any experience with. This
strengthened my skills in communication, leadership and effective decision making.
Additionally, I am studying for my A-levels in Mathematics and Further Mathematics.

Studying for A-levels is a decision I have made in order to achieve my goal of studying in the
United Kingdom. Even though I have obtained a position in the University of Cyprus, I have
always believed that I will benefit as well as offer more, if I was given a chance to study in
one of the world's leading Universities. I am certain that studying amongst the brightest in
the best learning environment and having access to cutting-edge technology will give me the
skills necessary to pursue a career that I have always wanted. I am looking forward to
studying Computer Science at University and seeing what challenges it would bring, both
academically and personally.